Today we’d like to introduce you to Aileen Cook.
Hi Aileen, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My name is A.N.Cook, and I am a self-published author. I never imagined I would ever be where I am today with eleven published titles, much less have written a single book. My writing journey started as a cartoon moment with two characters arguing on my shoulder about writing a book. I was exhausted from work, driving home, and this is how my day ended. One character pleaded in favor of writing, the other opposed. I probably sounded like an idiot agreeing with the opposing team. This might have gone on for a few long minutes, before…poof…silence. I won. There would be no book writing in my future. WRONG! That persistent little voice came back not to tell me yes, but to give me the entire first chapter of the first book I ever wrote! That was twenty-one years ago, and I haven’t stopped imagining stories since.
I consider myself an eclectic writer. Fantasy is my favorite genre, but I dabble in other areas. I have written drama, sci-fi, light romance, and picture books, and presently I am working on my first thriller for the middle-grade audience. I want to write books that everyone in the family can enjoy, not just a small niche market. My ultimate goal is to one day have at least one of my books turned into a film or TV series.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
There is no smooth road in writing. You need an all-terrain vehicle! I must admit that I have only experienced writer’s block once. That is one of the worst mountains to climb. Other potholes have included: time, energy, and research. I want to ensure that historical information is accurate when working on a period piece. That can take up to several months of study. I work a full-time job, so I’m tired on my days off and don’t always feel like writing, or I’m busy filling my schedule with family activities.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Not only am I an author, but I am also the illustrator for my books. I enjoy anything artsy on the side, from painting on canvas to creating window art at my full-time job. I have trademarked my own publishing company, Uniquely Imaginative. Presently, I only represent my books, but who knows, maybe I can expand that years down the road. People know me for my originality. I’m not afraid to take something out there and turn it into a new idea, like mashing the religious story of Christmas with the story of Santa. People LOVE my tale of Santa’s first Noel. I did the same for easter.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I am the worst when it comes to this. I used to have a monthly critique group. That was the best support group I ever belonged to. It gave me the incentive to write. I moved away and haven’t started another one, nor have I found one, and I’ve slacked off. My advice is to be a part of a group that will motivate you.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.aileencook.com
- Instagram: instagram@fantasynovelist
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/authorA.N.Cook
- Twitter: twitter@ancookwriter
- Other: [email protected]
